Health Tip: Understanding Childhood Obesity

Obesity is dangerous for any person, even for children.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says potential complications of childhood obesity include:

• Increased risks of high cholesterol, high blood pressure and heart disease.
• Increased risks of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance.
• Increased risk of breathing difficulties, including asthma and sleep apnea.
• Increased risks of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), liver disease and gallstones.